Developers of the PATH project, the Potomac Appalachian Transmission Highline, say they are sensitive to the concerns raised by environmental groups and property owners.

As the 200 mile, 765 kilovolt line is developed, officials say they'll use the most modern technology available in the development to minimize any impact on the environment and landscape.

"After years of experience with transmission, we try to leverage what we've learned over the years to bring the best product to the table for the consumers and for the property owners we'll be crossing," said Project Manager Archie Pugh.

Pugh says, although the 765 kilovolt line is the biggest out there on the AEP system, it is also the most efficient.  It needs a 200 foot right of way.  

However, Pugh says transmitting the same volume of power on a series of smaller transmission lines would require hundreds more feet of right of way space and a whole lot more lines and towers along the route.

"When you operate at lower voltage, you have to have more transmission lines," said Pugh.  "So we're moving more power utilizing a smaller right of way.  That's the enhancement that 765 brings to the table."

The towers holding the lines will also be of modern design.

Officials say two different types of towers will be used.  The large steel towers will be colored with a gray material, dulling an otherwise shiny appearance.  A second set of towers will be rust or wood colored to better blend with the surroundings.

"We have found in recent years, the darkened material tends to blend in a little bit better with the landscape," said Pugh.

The lines themselves will also be of advanced quality.

The old 765 kilovolt transmission included four lines per phase on the poles.  The result, especially on wet days and days when demand is highest, you can hear crackling and popping of the lines.  The new configuration puts six electric cables in a single phase.  Pugh says it reduces the noise by at least half.

The next public hearings on PATH in front of the state Public Service Commission will come next week at the Days Hotel in Flatwoods in Braxton County.  Those hearings are scheduled for 12:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. on Monday.